Phoenix historic Hotel San Carlos

If you’re into the history of a place, take a dive back into the 1920s when Phoenix was hopping with the hottest celebrities, trolley cars and familiar sets from Psycho at Hotel San Carlos, a Historic Hotel of America.

The Hotel San Carlos is located in downtown Phoenix on Central and Monroe. Photo by Greg Stobbe

Maybe not the nicest of our downtown hotel assortment, but certainly one with the most character. The beautiful architecture and old-time feel provides an excellent atmosphere to enhance your stay. According to the website, the hotel first opened in March 1928 and was considered the most modern and upscale high-rise hotel in the Southwest, complete with hand-operated elevators and air conditioning (oh my!). So much so, that celebs such as Marilyn Monroe and Mae West considered Hotel San Carlos their first pick whenever visiting Phoenix. You can even stay in their suites.

In 2003, the hotel underwent a massive, multi-million dollar renovation, still maintaining the classic and historic architectural elements, such as terracotta tiles, column ornamentations and the 7th floor penthouse where the original owner and General Manager lived with his family.

“Other notable elements are the lobby’s original carved plaster crown moldings, Austrian crystal chandeliers and wall sconces, and copper-clad elevator doors and moldings,” as written on the website.

Aside from the gorgeous lobby and recently-renovated pool, there’s a relatively new star walk outside to commemorate the hotels past during the hollywood boom.